a new leaf

Posted: 16 May 2016

Rogan Louwrens

If you’ve stuck by the trusty teabag until now, do yourself a favour: pick up a pot and join the loose-leaf legion. In flavour, versatility and sheer sophistication, there’s nothing that touches a properly steeped cuppa.
We’re huge fans of The Tea Merchant – it's pretty much a one-stop shop for every aspect of this revered ancient beverage, making it perfect for newcomers and veteran connoisseurs alike. Just take the teapots on offer, for example: you’ll find every choice from stainless steel and borosilicate glass to internally enameled cast iron, and in a wide enough range of styles to suit any aesthetic. Accessories, too, are catered for, including thermometers for the exacting, and everything is both simple to use and easy to clean. Score, right?
Then there’s the main attraction, of course – the tea itself. With its selection of around 100 leafy options, The Tea Merchant is guaranteed to have exactly what you’re looking for. Alongside the usual suspects in the tea world – green, black, white, rooibos, flower teas, jasmine teas and, yes, organic teabags for those days that demand high-quality convenience – you’ll find a dizzying array of herbal and fruit tisanes. These are an outstanding (not to mention, sugar- and caffeine-free) alternative to juices, and kids have apparently taken to them with an enthusiasm bordering on zeal.
Those with specialised interests will find everything they need, too. Want to try your hand at making matcha – the Japanese powdered green tea that’s whisked up to a froth and used in innumerable desserts? You’re sorted.
Give it a go. And don’t blame us if you find yourself addicted.
Visit theteamerchant.co.za to see what's on offer and make your purchases.